As disheartening as the thought is, it makes sense to carry a personal protection device with you. If you are considering making this decision, you probably have questions. When it comes to self-defense weapons, it is smart to inform yourself on some basic knowledge. In this way, you will be far better prepared to decide which devices and/or weapons are right for you.



Before you begin, it is essential to ask yourself the following questions.

1.Is the device/weapon you are considering legal?

2.Will you keep this device/weapon on you at all times?

3.Will it be easily accessible for you in a time of need?

4.Are you emotionally and physically prepared to use it for your self defense?

Keep the above in mind as you peruse the options available, and seek to answer these questions before making a purchase. If you have never used a personal security device before, you will want to start gathering information on the ones that are the easiest to use. Below, you will find basic information on three general types of self defense devices.

1.Personal Alarms While alarms will not hurt your attacker, they will cause others in the general area to be alerted to a problem. Often, this is enough to send an assailant scurrying on their way. They come in a variety of sizes, from a key chain attachment on up. They are loud enough to create awareness of an issue, and they are affordable in price from under $5.00 and up. Realize, if the alarm does not bring assistance, or cause the assailant to flee, you are in trouble. It may be best to consider a personal alarm in addition to a self-defense weapon.

2.Mace and Pepper Spray These are virtually one and the same. They both use the same ingredients that will sting and slam shut an assailants eyes giving you time to get to safety. With an easy flick of the safety feature, you have the ability to stop an attacker in their tracks. In addition, they are easy to find, reasonably priced (from under $10 and up), and come in varying sizes. If you choose to use a spray defense weapon, be sure to choose a type and size that will make it easily accessible for you.

3.Stun guns come in a variety of sizes. From a small handheld device that can be carried discreetly in a pocket, to full-size. While most people do not choose a stun gun as their first choice in self defense, it can be an excellent tool. Non fatal, stun guns use high voltage combined with low amperage to successfully disable an attacker for several minutes, giving the victim plenty of time to seek assistance. Stun guns range in price from under $20.00 up to several hundred dollars; so can fit in everyones budget.

There are specific laws that mandate the use of stun guns, and they can vary from state to state. Check here: Stun Gun Laws and Regulations to read the laws and the regulations that may affect your state. Remember, it is your responsibility to ascertain if it is legal for you to carry a stun gun or not.

While each of the above personal security devices are important for everyone regardless of age, sex, or locale it is important to understand that certain groups of people are targeted more often by criminals. Those groups are women, college students, and the elderly. If you, or someone you love, fall into one of these groups, it is even more vital that they understand their dangers and are prepared to defend themselves if they are ever assaulted.